Celebrating Women in Medicine and Women's History Month

Women have played a transformative role in the growth and advancement of pediatric gastroenterology, steadily reshaping the field through leadership, scholarship, mentorship, and clinical innovation. Over the past several decades, their contributions have not only advanced patient care and research but have also helped open doors for the next generation of physicians.

One notable milestone occurred in 2006 when Dr. Judith Sondheimer became the first woman to receive the Harry Schwachman Award, the highest honor from the North American Society for Pediatric Gastroenterology, Hepatology and Nutrition (NASPGHAN). Since the award’s inception in 1987, only five women have received this distinction, highlighting both the significance of her achievement and the gradual progress toward gender equity in the specialty. Dr. Sondheimer’s recognition marked an important turning point, demonstrating the impact of women’s leadership in academic medicine and pediatric subspecialties.

Another important milestone came in 2023 when Dr. Jean Molleston became the first woman to receive the NASPGHAN Master Educator Award. She remains one of only two women to have earned this honor, reflecting her extraordinary dedication to medical education and mentorship. Her work has influenced generations of trainees and strengthened the educational foundation of pediatric gastroenterology.

Leadership within NASPGHAN has also evolved significantly. Dr. Kathleen Schwartz was among the first women to serve as president of the society, helping pave the way for greater female representation in organizational leadership. Today, NASPGHAN has reached a historic moment in which all three presidential leadership roles within the society are held by women. Their leadership continues to strengthen the organization and guide its strategic vision for research, education, advocacy, and patient care.

These achievements reflect a broader shift within pediatric gastroenterology. Women in the field have continued to break through long-standing barriers, contributing as investigators, educators, clinicians, and leaders. Their influence has expanded opportunities for collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. As more women enter the specialty and rise into leadership roles, the future of pediatric gastroenterology looks increasingly dynamic, inclusive, and strong. The progress made so far signals a promising path forward for the field and the patients it serves. 

Dedicated to all the women who have helped open the doors for women behind them. 

Recognize Excellence: 2026 NASPGHAN Award Nominations Now Open

NASPGHAN invites members to submit nominations for the 2026 NASPGHAN Awards, which honor individuals whose leadership, service, research, and educational contributions have advanced pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition.

Take a moment to recognize a colleague whose work has strengthened our field and the NASPGHAN community.



The following awards are now accepting applications through submission deadline of April 30, 2026:

• Harry Shwachman Award - Honors a member who has made major, lifelong scientific or educational contributions to pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, or nutrition in North America.
• Margaret Stallings NASPGHAN Distinguished Service Award - Recognizes a member for outstanding service and contributions to the field through national and/or international leadership and impact.
• Master Educator Award - Acknowledges a member who has made significant and sustained contributions to the field through educational scholarship and mentorship.
• Teri Li Young Educator Award - Celebrates a member early in their professional career (10 years or less) who has demonstrated exceptional commitment and impact in education within pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition.

Members can review eligibility requirements and submit nominations by visiting the NASPGHAN Awards page: https://naspghan.org/about/naspghan-awards/

Award recipients will be recognized during the 2026 NASPGHAN Annual Meeting, October 21–24 in San Diego, California.

Questions regarding the nomination process may be directed to Steve Farace, Director of Member Engagement, at sfarace@naspghan.org.

Help Inspire the Next Generation of Pediatric GI Leaders

Applications are now open for the 2026 NASPGHAN Medical Student Mentored Summer Research Program, which provides medical students with early exposure to pediatric gastroenterology, hepatology, and nutrition through mentored summer research experiences. NASPGHAN members are encouraged to participate by serving as research mentors and/or by sharing this opportunity with medical students or colleagues involved in medical education and research.

The program supports 8–10 week research experiences in basic, clinical, or translational science at institutions across the United States and Canada. Through close collaboration with experienced investigators, students gain valuable research experience while building connections within the pediatric GI community.

Participants may also be considered for the Teaching for an Inclusive Tomorrow (TFIT) Scholarship, supported by the NASPGHAN Foundation. TFIT provides selected students with the opportunity to attend the NASPGHAN Annual Meeting, participate in tailored career-development sessions, and connect with fellows, program directors, and leaders across the field.

Learn more about the program, mentor participation, and application details:

https://naspghan.org/medical-student-resident-opportunities (Application deadline is April 6, 2026)

Questions regarding the program can be directed to Steve Farace, Director of Member Engagement, at sfarace@naspghan.org.